November 13, 2025 • 34 mins
# 29 - Isaac Meets Rebekah - In this episode of The Chosen People, Eliezer embarks on a journey to find a wife for Isaac, trusting in divine guidance to fulfill Abraham's wishes. This episode reflects on obedience, faith, and God's providence, as Rebekah's kindness and willingness to follow lead to a love story orchestrated by God's hand.
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Episode 29 of The Chosen People is inspired by the Book of Genesis.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Ephesians 5:15-16, “Therefore watch carefully how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the chosen people.
Speaker 2 (00:04):
Can you count the stars, Abram.
Speaker 1 (00:06):
Abram shook his head uncertain.
Speaker 2 (00:09):
You cannot, for there are too many. It is impossible.
It is to be the same with your offspring. The
great nation I shall make through your air would be
as innumerable as the stars in the night sky.
Speaker 3 (00:28):
Sarah has given you a son, Isaac.
Speaker 4 (00:33):
Listen, carefully, take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom
you love. Go to the land of Mariah and offer
him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains.
Speaker 5 (00:49):
My son, Hi, I must ask something of you.
Speaker 3 (00:55):
Whatever you ask of me, Father, I'll do.
Speaker 1 (00:59):
Legacy, destiny, dreams, the future. Isaac represented all those things
with one fell swoop of his blade. He would end
it all, sacrifice it all for his god. Abraham poised
to strike and shouted to the heavens. His voice billowed
(01:21):
against the wind. He threw his hips back, cocked his arm,
and began his descent into sorrow.
Speaker 6 (01:30):
Abraham, Abraham, do not lay a hand on the boy
or do anything to him.
Speaker 2 (01:38):
For now I know that you fear your God, since
you have not withheld your only son from me.
Speaker 1 (01:53):
The dawn's early light stretched long fingers across the pasture,
casting shadows that ants like phantoms. In the morning, mist
Earlieza was inspecting the freshly shorn wool, evaluating its quality
to ensure it bore the mark of his master Abraham.
As the morning sun cast long shadows across the pasture
(02:17):
and urgent summons reached him without delay, he nodded to
the shepherds and hastened towards Abraham's tent. The old Patriarch's
tent was a simple but stately structure, its weathered fabric
bearing the marks of many seasons.
Speaker 3 (02:33):
Yes, Master Abram, you called for me.
Speaker 5 (02:35):
Yes, Eliazar, I have something important to discuss with you.
Please take a seat with me. I've decided to take
another wife. I miss Sarah dearly, and her memory will
be with me every day, but I can no longer
ignore the duty that is expected of me. I've put
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it off for these past three years, but I can't
put it off for much longer.
Speaker 3 (03:01):
Yes, that's wise, Master, It's as the custom of your
God goes, be fruitful and multiply. I should be glad
to see you have more children and add to our household.
Speaker 5 (03:14):
Quite but it actually wasn't my marriage that I wanted
to speak with you about It's Isaac's Ah. Yes, though
he is a man grown, I admit I still think
of him as my precious boy. Perhaps it's the vast
difference in age between us. He is the child of
(03:36):
my twilight years. But he has taken on every responsibility
I've given him and worn it well. He is a
fine air one I know I can rely on. But
now that my own attention turns to matrimony, I must
acknowledge that my son is yet a bachelor. Truth be told,
(04:00):
I enjoy having him near me, and perhaps that is
why I have put this off for so long. But
I must see Isaac married before I take a wife.
He is ready, Master.
Speaker 3 (04:12):
He will make a fine husband, just as he will
bear his inheritance.
Speaker 5 (04:16):
Well, I know, Eliezar. Thank you.
Speaker 3 (04:21):
Do you wish for me to search for a bride
for him, Master.
Speaker 5 (04:24):
I do, But I suppose that brings us to the
heart of what I would ask of you.
Speaker 3 (04:30):
Master, I will do anything you ask.
Speaker 2 (04:33):
I know you will.
Speaker 5 (04:34):
Eliezar, you are a true friend. I would have you
seek out a wife for Isaac from the land of
my family in haran Ah.
Speaker 3 (04:45):
I see that is quite the journey.
Speaker 5 (04:49):
Yes it is, but I cannot permit a marriage pact
with the people of Canaan. They do not know our
God or understand our ways. I fear this could lead
my son or his children or his children's children astray.
And besides, our God has spoken of my legacy and
(05:09):
my line time and time again. I wish for the
line of my father's to be preserved through my grandchildren.
I want to honor the line of Shem, that of
Noah's and that of Seths.
Speaker 3 (05:23):
I understand, Master, But suppose the woman is unwilling to
follow me back to this land. It would be a
great distance without the protection of her family, and she
would be a complete stranger in these lands. It would
be quite a woman who is bold enough to forego
the protection of her father's house and take me at
my word. If I am unsuccessful at finding such a
(05:46):
woman who would venture to Canaan to secure a marriage pact,
should I have Isaac come with me to the land
of your father's instead.
Speaker 5 (05:55):
No, Isaac will not return there. I would have you
wear an oath to me to ensure that you carry
this task out in exactly the manner I've commanded. When
the God Most High came to me all those years ago.
He bid me go out and leave the land for good.
He promised that my offspring would have this land we're
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standing upon right now. Our God will go ahead of
you and make a way for you to get a
wife from my son there. If the woman is unwilling
to come back with you, then you will be released
from this oath of mine. Only do not take my
son back there.
Speaker 3 (06:37):
I understand, Master. I am ready to swear the oath.
Speaker 5 (06:41):
I must have you do this, not because I do
not trust you, but because if something were to happen,
or if I should not live to see the result,
I would rest easier knowing that we swore this oath.
As you know, this is profoundly important to me. The
(07:01):
promise must be protected at all costs. We must remain
the chosen people.
Speaker 3 (07:08):
I understand, Master Abram, I will do as you ask.
Speaker 1 (07:12):
With that, Elieza dutifully knelt before his master and placed
his hand under Abraham's thigh, as was the custom of
Abraham's people when swearing this type of oath Allah. The
oath resembled a curse upon Eliza should he break it.
Though born and raised in another land, Eliezer had learned
(07:33):
the ways of Abraham's people.
Speaker 5 (07:35):
Well, swear by my God, God Almighty, the God most High,
that you will not take a wife from my son,
from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I lived,
but that you will go to my land and my
family to take a wife from my son Isaac.
Speaker 3 (07:53):
I swear by our God.
Speaker 5 (07:56):
Let this be a solemn sign between us, that if
this oath is not carried out, any of my children
will avenge your unfaithfulness.
Speaker 3 (08:04):
I understand, Master, Thank you, Eliezer.
Speaker 5 (08:09):
Now I hope your journey brings you back to us swiftly.
I do not wish to die with my duty to
take another wife unfulfilled, and I am sure Isaac would
feel the same.
Speaker 3 (08:24):
Of course, Master, very true, I would not have you
delay this blessing on my account.
Speaker 1 (08:32):
Two weeks later, Eliezer and his men approached Taran, their
ten camels laden with provisions and gifts. The journey had
been swift, driven by Eliezer's determination and the urgency of
his mission. Each day he prayed fervently for success, for
he dreaded returning to Abraham without fulfilling his vow. Eliezer
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had joined Abraham's household when the patriarch could pass through Damascus.
The young servant had grown by Abraham's side, rising from
obscurity to become chief servant and trusted adviser. He owed
everything to Abraham, and he loved him as a father.
As they neared heron, as scout raised a hand to
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hold the party.
Speaker 6 (09:17):
This be Aram Naharaim. If the travelers from the roadway
back there can we believed the locals call it naehorstown.
Speaker 3 (09:25):
Nehor Master Abraham's brother. We're in the right place. Hi.
Speaker 6 (09:30):
It sounds like he's a prominent man in these parts.
Rich too.
Speaker 3 (09:33):
Oh, yes, our master's family was wealthy long before he
departed from them. These sons of Shem are considered merchant princes,
their well thrivaling royalty among the trade routes between Haran
and Erth.
Speaker 6 (09:49):
Aie a suitable family for our master's son, then, eh.
Speaker 3 (09:52):
Yes, exactly, I see a well over there by the
city walls. Let's unload the camels so we can of them.
We can also set up camp here outside the walls.
Speaker 1 (10:06):
The men sprang from their camels and set to the
task Eliezer had assigned them. Eliezer dismounted more slowly and
massaged his aching joints once he was on the ground.
The ride here had been long and hard, and the
weight of his task hadn't helped. He decided to go
and see to his own thirst before returning to help
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the other men unload. As he neared, he saw the
townswomen emerging to draw water in the cool of the day.
He watched them, wondering if any were kin to Nahor
and if he might find Isaac's bride among them. For
two weeks, Eliezer had pondered how to fulfill his task.
Now standing at Haron's well, he devised a test. He
(10:50):
closed his eyes and prayed silently to the God of Abraham.
Speaker 3 (10:55):
Aye, I ask you, God, must High God of my
master Abraham, make this happen for me today, and show
kindness to my Master Abraham. Here I am, Lord, standing
at the spring where the daughters of the men of
the town are coming out to draw water. Let the
(11:15):
girl to whom I say, please lower your water jug
so I may drink, And who responds drink and all
water the camels also, Let her be the one whom
you have appointed for your servant, Master Isaac by this,
I will know that you have shown kindness to my Master.
Speaker 1 (11:36):
Ellie As I felt satisfied with the test he had devised,
he would ask the approaching women if they would draw
a drink for him, a hospitable act of most any
respectable woman would certainly oblige. But he would know that
Abraham's God's hand was at play if the woman miraculously
went above and beyond this common display of social niceties.
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He had ten camels in tow, Watering them would be
no small task. If a woman offered to do that
as well, there would be no denying divine intentions.
Speaker 2 (12:06):
Were at work.
Speaker 1 (12:08):
Eyes still closed, Elieza sent out a quieter, a more
vulnerable prayer in his heart to the God of Abraham.
He prayed that his voice would be heard, that he
would even be permitted to make such a request to
this powerful god. He desperately hoped that his master's God
would deign to listen to him. He hoped for it
as much as he was fearful of failing Master Abraham.
(12:31):
As he opened his eyes, a young woman approached, her
water jug, balanced gracefully on her shoulder. Elieza watched her
with anticipation.
Speaker 3 (12:40):
His heart pounding, my lady, I have news.
Speaker 7 (12:45):
What is it, Deborah? Hurry, let's hear it. I must
leave to go down and draw water soon.
Speaker 8 (12:50):
That's just it, my lady.
Speaker 9 (12:52):
I heard some wealthy travelers just right. They're saying it's
an advanced party sent out on behalf of some lord
or merchant for a wife.
Speaker 8 (13:01):
I heard their wealth is quite substantial.
Speaker 7 (13:05):
Oh, you would have me go down and bat my eyes.
Speaker 9 (13:09):
You should find out what their business is. At least,
my lady, you should be the first to offer them hospitality.
Speaker 8 (13:16):
Go and make a good impression.
Speaker 9 (13:18):
See what comes of it.
Speaker 7 (13:21):
Deborah, have you made an offering to the Goddess Eana today?
Did you beg for her favor in love and fertility?
Your scheming is as bad as Laban's.
Speaker 8 (13:32):
My lady.
Speaker 9 (13:33):
If I thought as your brother does, I would be
on the city wall peering down at them and counting
the parcels myself.
Speaker 7 (13:39):
I wouldn't be surprised if Laban isn't doing that very thing.
I do suppose you're right, though it doesn't cost me
anything to be kind, and who knows I could have
much to gain. I would be wise to see if
there's something advantageous for me. Oh, and I know my
brother Laban would never forgive me if I let a
good opportunity? Did he pass me by?
Speaker 1 (14:04):
Not half an hour later, Rebecca was on her way
toward the well. Deborah fussed over her clothes, but then
frantically shoot her out the door of their house. Fretting
about the other young women of the town speaking to
the visitors before her, Rebecca nervously smoothed her dress with
one hand as she walked. The other balanced the large
(14:24):
clay water jug on her shoulder. Rebecca was young, but
she was no fool to the way of things. Her
brother Larban had not yet begun to take marriage negotiation
meetings with her, but she knew what was expected of her.
She was the daughter of a great family. Her grandfather
was none other than their patriarch in Nehor. The day
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was soon coming that she would be a bride, and
if she could have a hand in bringing it about,
she was determined to do so. Rebecca was clever, never
missing an opportunity. Deborah often told her she had a
wilful and in dependent spirit that would need to be
curbed some day, but Rebecca could not help it. Perhaps
she and her brother were more alike than she would
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care to admit. Rebecca inhaled sharply and straightened her shoulders
as she passed through the city gates. Sure enough, the
camels were kneeling beside the well. Deborau was right. The
amount of goods divided among the unridden camels was staggering.
Perhaps their lord was as rich as her family, maybe
even more so, she chuckled to herself. There she was
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thinking like Lobon again. As she approached the entrance to
the well, she noticed a man standing several paces away,
watching her. Keeping her head high in her shoulders back,
she demurely pretended not to notice him. She proceeded to
walk down the stairs and draw water from the well.
He had the look of a servant, but one of
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status the head servant.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
Perhaps.
Speaker 1 (15:55):
She sifted through her thoughts to plan what to say
to him, But as she climbed the stairs to the well,
she found that all her schemes and designs suddenly evaporated
from her mind. She didn't feel overwhelmed or scared. She
just felt present, an odd feeling since she constantly dreamed
and schemed about the future. Rebecca was aware of her
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breath going in and out of her lungs. Her mind
felt crystal clear and open. The man approached.
Speaker 3 (16:24):
Please, my lady, would you let me have a little
water from your vessel?
Speaker 2 (16:29):
Up close?
Speaker 1 (16:30):
Rebecca was surprised to feel compassion for the man. He
seemed incredibly weary and tired. He must have come from
a far distance. Though she did not know him, she
felt responsible to him for some reason, loyal even without thinking.
She carefully shrugged the heavy water jug from her shoulder,
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clasping it with two hands, and handed it to him
in a gesture of kindness.
Speaker 7 (16:56):
Drink, my lord.
Speaker 1 (16:58):
She watched as he drank long and deep from the jug.
She saw the camels kneeling beside the water trough behind him.
She could see from here that the limestone bottom of
the trough was cracked and dry as a bone. The
water from the day had been drained earlier or evaporated
in the heat. Again, a strong sense of compassion nagged
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at her. She had to do something about that. She
was young and capable. She found within her an intense,
urgent desire to help.
Speaker 7 (17:29):
Please, my Lord, allow me to serve you. I see
that your camels have not been watered after your journey.
I'll also draw water for them until they've had enough
to drink.
Speaker 1 (17:39):
The man blinked at her in surprise, but graciously handed
her back her vessel and stepped aside. Rebecca emptied the
rest of her jug into the trough. She took her
empty water jug and descended the stairs. She drew more
water and began the climb again. The first camel was
already drinking deeply from the trough, and the others were
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crowded round, eager to drink from the next. It took
Rebecca nine trips just to satisfy the first camel. The
man watched her still, and now his companions had slowed
their camp making to watch this strange scene unfold, that
of a young girl hurrying back and forth from the
well to the trough. A few of them started to
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move forward to help, but the man wordlessly waved them off,
his eyes still fixed on Rebecca. But Rebecca didn't stop
at the first camel. She kept drawing water and marching
up and down the stairs, lungs and legs burning, until
all ten camels nearly one hundred trips, were watered. All
the while she wondered at herself. Gone was the advice
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from her nurse maid. Gone was her own ambition or schemes. Instead,
there was only this overwhelming sense of miraculous loyalty. The
kindness and compassion she felt in her heart were all
that remained. As she labored at her task. Eliezza had
to keep reminding himself not to hang his mouth open
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in disbelief. The girl was fulfilling the test he laid
before God. He was stunned into silence. The task had
taken several hours to complete, but she didn't stop to
rest or show signs of halting, even once. The light
was very nearly gone from the sky now, and the
flicker of lamps in high windows could be seen beyond
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the city walls. The girl finally stopped when she poured
the last portion of water into the trough for the
last camel. She turned and faced him, panting as if
waiting for him to speak. Still in shock, dumbly, Elieza
stumbled forward toward one of the camels, now kneeling satiated
beside her.
Speaker 3 (19:47):
My lady, wait, I know it's getting late, and I'm
sure your family will be wondering where you are, but
I would present you with something.
Speaker 1 (19:57):
He fumbled through the saddle bags until he found what
he was looking for. He then stood before the girl.
She was young, but stunningly beautiful, with sharp, clever eyes
that he knew would not miss a thing. This was
undoubtedly the girl God intended for Master Isaac, and, still
shaking with realization and clarity, he gently took her hand
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and placed a half shekeled gold ring in her palm.
He then took her other hand and placed two bracelets
weighing ten shekels of gold upon her wrists.
Speaker 3 (20:30):
Whose daughter are you? And please tell me? Is the
room in your father's house for us to spend the night?
Speaker 7 (20:37):
I am the daughter of Bethul, son of Milka, whom
she bore to Nahor. And yes, our camp has plenty
of straw and feed for your camels, and a place
for you and your men to spend the night.
Speaker 1 (20:48):
Elieza should not have been surprised by this discovery, after
what he had just witnessed, but he was amazed for
a second time that evening. When the girl named herself
one of Abraham's extended family. An overpowering sense of awe
swelled inside Eliezza, and he dropped to his knees in amazement.
Speaker 3 (21:07):
Blessed be the God of my master Abraham. He has
not withheld his kindness and his faithfulness from my master.
As for me, this same god, the God of my master,
has not led me astray, but led me straight to
the house of my master's relatives.
Speaker 1 (21:25):
Rebecca ran home and promised to send someone back to
meet them and escort them to her house. A short
while later, Elieza and his men were preparing to move
the camels when a large bear like man approached.
Speaker 6 (21:39):
Rathers, I am Laban at yours serves. My sister tells
me you have joined it a long while. Come, I
shall spoil you with lamb, wine and figs. Your camels
will have plenty of straw, and your heads will have
soft pillows to be at ease.
Speaker 1 (22:00):
Presented himself as a jolly simple man. Yet Rebecca knew better.
She knew that Laban always had an angle.
Speaker 2 (22:09):
The wheels were always.
Speaker 1 (22:11):
Turning behind his wide smile and earnest, deep voice. Elieza
and the others were escorted to the grand dining tent.
Tapestries of Nahor's exploits laced the walls and floor. Torches, flickered,
music played, and the rich smell of lamb stew and
roasted figs filled the air. It was nearly more than
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Elieza could handle after such a journey, but he had
to remember the task at hand.
Speaker 3 (22:37):
My Lord Laban, and sweet Lady Rebecca, I must not
eat until I've said what I've come to say.
Speaker 6 (22:45):
Speak to your heart's content.
Speaker 3 (22:47):
I am Abraham's servant, that is Abraham, son of Terror,
and your father's brother. Now, God Almighty has blessed my
master in the land of Canaan. He has become very
wealthy in land and resources. God has given him flocks
and herds, silver and gold, servants, camels and donkeys. Sarah,
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my master's wife, bore a son to my master in
her old age, and he has given him everything he owns.
His name is Isaac Hell.
Speaker 1 (23:23):
He has a paused for breath, and when he did,
he noticed with amusement that Rebecca's cheeks reddened at the
mention of Isaac's name.
Speaker 3 (23:32):
You see, I have traveled back to this land because
my master put me under an oath. He said to me,
you will not take a wife for my son from
the daughters of the Canaanites, but will go to my
father's family. Well, today we arrived in the land of
my master, and this is the first town we came upon.
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Imagine my surprise when we came to discover the name.
While resting at the well, I divide the test to
discern God's will. I prayed to him and I said,
let the young woman who comes out to draw the water,
and I say to her, please, let me drink from
your vessel. And she responds, drink, and I'll also water
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for your camels. Let her be the woman that God
Almighty has appointed for my master's son.
Speaker 1 (24:22):
The look of shock on the faces around the table
revealed the dismatch precisely to the account Rebecca told them.
Speaker 3 (24:29):
So it sounds like you already know where my tail
is heading. Before I had even finished praying, there was
Rebecca with her jug of water. What happened next was
it was exactly the sign that I had prayed for.
So you see the God of my master Abraham, He's
guided me to you, the granddaughter of my master's own brother.
Speaker 6 (24:55):
Oho. I speak for all of us when I say
I am a maid. Now I've heard rumors of Abraham's
god whispers and tall tales that blew in with the sand.
Hearing your account makes me believe all the more it
would seem that we have no choice in the matter.
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You have also already offered, my dear sister, what would
appear to be the beginning of a generous bride price.
You should stay so we can discuss the details of
the arrangement. As long as it's all right with you,
dear sister.
Speaker 7 (25:29):
It seems fitting, brother, let's proceed.
Speaker 6 (25:33):
Ah, Yes, fitting indeed, Eliezar, raise your cup to Rebecca
and Isaac.
Speaker 1 (25:46):
Rebecca's household hummed with an excited frenzy. Eliza and Larbin
negotiated the bride price. Of course, Lavin squeezed every last
ounce he could during the negotiations, but in the end
all was set and ready. She was to be Isaac's wife.
She could scarcely sleep, and have been up at first
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light to begin preparing for her journey. Word had come
to her that Elieza was eager to depart right away.
Rebecca heard voices from outside. She leaned in closer to listen.
Speaker 8 (26:20):
I know you are eager to get back to your master,
but let the girl stay with us for another ten days.
We are delighted with your offer, but this is so sudden.
We need time to prepare. Give us ten days then
she can go.
Speaker 3 (26:36):
I understand this may seem sudden, but please do not
delay me. Since God Almighty has made my journey successful.
I must go to tell my master and tell him.
Speaker 8 (26:49):
But we cannot organize an escort for her on such
short notice.
Speaker 6 (26:54):
You would have us send Rebecca alone, without the protection
of her family, because you were unwilling to wait a
few daves.
Speaker 3 (27:02):
I cannot delay, but I assure you she will be
under my protection. I will see her to my master
and my master's son safely.
Speaker 8 (27:12):
But how let us ask the girl. I am sure
Rebecca will have an appeared she will decide.
Speaker 1 (27:20):
Rebecca pulled away from the door in surprise. She thought
she would have more time to prepare for this new life.
Now that her thoughts were racing, she wondered if she
would ever be ready for something like this, leaving the
known and stepping into the unknown to learn a new
land and its customs, to learn to follow this God
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of Abraham. She had never met Isaac or traveled to
the land she would help him rule. What had seemed
exciting in one moment now seemed utterly daunting. As she
fumbled through her thoughts, her mother, Elieza, and Laban entered Rebecca.
Speaker 8 (27:58):
A Liezer maintained aims that he cannot be delayed in
reporting back to his master. Will you go with him?
He intends to leave this very day.
Speaker 1 (28:09):
Rebecca looked from her mother to Elieza. When she looked
at him, all her overwhelming fears dissipated again. She felt
that sensation of loyalty and peace. Whether it was the
display of this man's faith or the power of his God,
she knew it would be all right.
Speaker 7 (28:29):
I will go.
Speaker 8 (28:32):
Look at this desolate place.
Speaker 7 (28:35):
Do these people live in sand castles? My betrothed people
are ranchers. They travel with their flocks and move about
in caravans. I would think some areas are more barren
than others.
Speaker 1 (28:48):
Rebecca had never beheld anything quite like the Negev before.
She had lived in Nahor's town her whole life, and
traveled to Haran and the surrounding camps on Occasioning could
have prepared her to see great plains and the wild wildernesses.
But when they arrived at the edge of the Negev, well,
she had never seen anything like it. It was barren and harsh,
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yet she marveled at its dangerous beauty. Her betrothed family
had learned to harness the land and create a vast empire.
She too, would soon be brought into the fold and
learn the ways of the desert.
Speaker 5 (29:26):
Ayezer, are we close?
Speaker 9 (29:28):
I'm not sure how many more days on a camel
my rump can take.
Speaker 3 (29:34):
We are close. We have just crossed into the Master's lands.
Speaker 1 (29:38):
Rebecca's heart soared in anticipation. Hardly a fortnight ago, her
family had sent her off with Abraham's servant, all her belongings, Dowry,
and her nursemaid Deborah, who would become her handmaiden in
her new Rover's mistress. Her family had blessed her before
she left, and she had given them each a tearful
good bye late at night when they slept under the stars.
(30:02):
She still missed them terribly, but as each day brought
her closer to her new home, she could not deny
the excitement building inside. Just then, movement on the horizon
caught her attention. Through the haze of the desert, her
shape started to solidify.
Speaker 7 (30:20):
It was a man, Eliezer, Who is that in the
field coming out to meet us?
Speaker 9 (30:26):
How can you see anyone through this blasted haze and
heat that.
Speaker 3 (30:30):
My lady is Master Isaac.
Speaker 1 (30:33):
Rebecca blushed and grinned like a fool. She quickly turned
away from Eliezza to hide her nervousness. My lady, your veil.
Speaker 5 (30:42):
You're about to meet your betrothed.
Speaker 8 (30:44):
You should dune your veil.
Speaker 9 (30:46):
That is what is proper in your new station.
Speaker 1 (30:49):
Rebecca heeded her former nursemaid and donned her veil. She
fidgeted atop her camel in the saddle and wished her
palms were not sweating so much. As the man approached,
he was alone, as if returning from a leisurely walk
about his lands. His stature was impressive, even from the
top of her camel, and at a distance she could
(31:09):
tell he was tall, but his demeanor was not intimidating.
She could see a good natured grin springing across his face,
brightening his eyes and forming deep crinkles on his face.
This was a man who smiled a great deal.
Speaker 3 (31:25):
He liezer, you've returned that I have Master Isaac, and
so soon eager to remain my father's favorite, I see
Master Isaac. As you can see, I have returned from
my journey. God has made it successful. May I present,
(31:45):
Lady Rebecca.
Speaker 1 (31:47):
Rebecca inclined her head and found that when she brought
her gaze back up to meet her betrothed, his smile
had somehow doubled in size. Butterflies coursed through her, and
she was thankful that the veil covered most of her face.
She could only imagine the vibrant shade of red that
could be found beneath it. The desert heat was nothing
(32:07):
to the heat that radiated from her cheeks. She then
remembered she was supposed to say something.
Speaker 7 (32:13):
Oh, my lord, I have traveled a long way to
meet you. I am honored to become your wife.
Speaker 3 (32:21):
Oh no, no, Rebecca, it is I who am honored.
Look at how far you've traveled, why you've uprooted your
whole life to be here. I just pray I don't disappoint.
Speaker 2 (32:34):
You with that.
Speaker 1 (32:35):
He strode to her camel, reached up with muscular arms,
and lifted her gently to the ground. Her breath caught
as he set her down, and she nearly swooned as
she grasped his arms to steady herself. As if sensing
her nervousness, he gave her a good natured smile and
turned to Elieza.
Speaker 3 (32:55):
Eliezer told me everything I want to know about your
journey and how you met this lovely woman, Spare no detail.
Speaker 1 (33:04):
Rebecca was grateful for not being the center of attention.
She wondered if Isaac knew that explicitly or simply intuited sir.
As they walked side by side, she had the opportunity
to observe him. He earnestly listened and responded to Eliez's
story with great enthusiasm. Rebecca admired the man's easy going
(33:25):
way about him.
Speaker 3 (33:27):
My lady, Rebecca, I'm amazed you can stand around all
these camels for a moment longer, after all the time
you spent watering and wandering among them these past weeks.
But fear not, my dear, your camel wrangling days are
far behind you.
Speaker 7 (33:45):
Oh I am grateful to hear it.
Speaker 3 (33:47):
My lord, Come, I would be honored to introduce you
to father.
Speaker 1 (33:52):
Isaac took Rebecca's hand as they walked toward his father's camp.
She looked up at him, and he smiled her. She
smiled back. Rebecca was home at last. This Prey dot
com production is only made possible by our dedicated team
of creative Talents. Steve Gattina, Max Bard, Zach Shellabarger and
(34:17):
Ben Gammon are the executive producers of The Chosen People.
Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton,
Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc,
Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and Mitch Leshinsky. Music by
Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and
(34:41):
Chris Baig. You can hear more Prey dot com productions
on the Prey dot Com app, available on the Apple
App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed The
Chosen People, please rate and leave a review,
Previously on the chosen people.
Speaker 2 (00:04):
Can you count the stars, Abram.
Speaker 1 (00:06):
Abram shook his head uncertain.
Speaker 2 (00:09):
You cannot, for there are too many. It is impossible.
It is to be the same with your offspring. The
great nation I shall make through your air would be
as innumerable as the stars in the night sky.
Speaker 3 (00:28):
Sarah has given you a son, Isaac.
Speaker 4 (00:33):
Listen, carefully, take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom
you love. Go to the land of Mariah and offer
him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains.
Speaker 5 (00:49):
My son, Hi, I must ask something of you.
Speaker 3 (00:55):
Whatever you ask of me, Father, I'll do.
Speaker 1 (00:59):
Legacy, destiny, dreams, the future. Isaac represented all those things
with one fell swoop of his blade. He would end
it all, sacrifice it all for his god. Abraham poised
to strike and shouted to the heavens. His voice billowed
(01:21):
against the wind. He threw his hips back, cocked his arm,
and began his descent into sorrow.
Speaker 6 (01:30):
Abraham, Abraham, do not lay a hand on the boy
or do anything to him.
Speaker 2 (01:38):
For now I know that you fear your God, since
you have not withheld your only son from me.
Speaker 1 (01:53):
The dawn's early light stretched long fingers across the pasture,
casting shadows that ants like phantoms. In the morning, mist
Earlieza was inspecting the freshly shorn wool, evaluating its quality
to ensure it bore the mark of his master Abraham.
As the morning sun cast long shadows across the pasture
(02:17):
and urgent summons reached him without delay, he nodded to
the shepherds and hastened towards Abraham's tent. The old Patriarch's
tent was a simple but stately structure, its weathered fabric
bearing the marks of many seasons.
Speaker 3 (02:33):
Yes, Master Abram, you called for me.
Speaker 5 (02:35):
Yes, Eliazar, I have something important to discuss with you.
Please take a seat with me. I've decided to take
another wife. I miss Sarah dearly, and her memory will
be with me every day, but I can no longer
ignore the duty that is expected of me. I've put
(02:56):
it off for these past three years, but I can't
put it off for much longer.
Speaker 3 (03:01):
Yes, that's wise, Master, It's as the custom of your
God goes, be fruitful and multiply. I should be glad
to see you have more children and add to our household.
Speaker 5 (03:14):
Quite but it actually wasn't my marriage that I wanted
to speak with you about It's Isaac's Ah. Yes, though
he is a man grown, I admit I still think
of him as my precious boy. Perhaps it's the vast
difference in age between us. He is the child of
(03:36):
my twilight years. But he has taken on every responsibility
I've given him and worn it well. He is a
fine air one I know I can rely on. But
now that my own attention turns to matrimony, I must
acknowledge that my son is yet a bachelor. Truth be told,
(04:00):
I enjoy having him near me, and perhaps that is
why I have put this off for so long. But
I must see Isaac married before I take a wife.
He is ready, Master.
Speaker 3 (04:12):
He will make a fine husband, just as he will
bear his inheritance.
Speaker 5 (04:16):
Well, I know, Eliezar. Thank you.
Speaker 3 (04:21):
Do you wish for me to search for a bride
for him, Master.
Speaker 5 (04:24):
I do, But I suppose that brings us to the
heart of what I would ask of you.
Speaker 3 (04:30):
Master, I will do anything you ask.
Speaker 2 (04:33):
I know you will.
Speaker 5 (04:34):
Eliezar, you are a true friend. I would have you
seek out a wife for Isaac from the land of
my family in haran Ah.
Speaker 3 (04:45):
I see that is quite the journey.
Speaker 5 (04:49):
Yes it is, but I cannot permit a marriage pact
with the people of Canaan. They do not know our
God or understand our ways. I fear this could lead
my son or his children or his children's children astray.
And besides, our God has spoken of my legacy and
(05:09):
my line time and time again. I wish for the
line of my father's to be preserved through my grandchildren.
I want to honor the line of Shem, that of
Noah's and that of Seths.
Speaker 3 (05:23):
I understand, Master, But suppose the woman is unwilling to
follow me back to this land. It would be a
great distance without the protection of her family, and she
would be a complete stranger in these lands. It would
be quite a woman who is bold enough to forego
the protection of her father's house and take me at
my word. If I am unsuccessful at finding such a
(05:46):
woman who would venture to Canaan to secure a marriage pact,
should I have Isaac come with me to the land
of your father's instead.
Speaker 5 (05:55):
No, Isaac will not return there. I would have you
wear an oath to me to ensure that you carry
this task out in exactly the manner I've commanded. When
the God Most High came to me all those years ago.
He bid me go out and leave the land for good.
He promised that my offspring would have this land we're
(06:18):
standing upon right now. Our God will go ahead of
you and make a way for you to get a
wife from my son there. If the woman is unwilling
to come back with you, then you will be released
from this oath of mine. Only do not take my
son back there.
Speaker 3 (06:37):
I understand, Master. I am ready to swear the oath.
Speaker 5 (06:41):
I must have you do this, not because I do
not trust you, but because if something were to happen,
or if I should not live to see the result,
I would rest easier knowing that we swore this oath.
As you know, this is profoundly important to me. The
(07:01):
promise must be protected at all costs. We must remain
the chosen people.
Speaker 3 (07:08):
I understand, Master Abram, I will do as you ask.
Speaker 1 (07:12):
With that, Elieza dutifully knelt before his master and placed
his hand under Abraham's thigh, as was the custom of
Abraham's people when swearing this type of oath Allah. The
oath resembled a curse upon Eliza should he break it.
Though born and raised in another land, Eliezer had learned
(07:33):
the ways of Abraham's people.
Speaker 5 (07:35):
Well, swear by my God, God Almighty, the God most High,
that you will not take a wife from my son,
from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I lived,
but that you will go to my land and my
family to take a wife from my son Isaac.
Speaker 3 (07:53):
I swear by our God.
Speaker 5 (07:56):
Let this be a solemn sign between us, that if
this oath is not carried out, any of my children
will avenge your unfaithfulness.
Speaker 3 (08:04):
I understand, Master, Thank you, Eliezer.
Speaker 5 (08:09):
Now I hope your journey brings you back to us swiftly.
I do not wish to die with my duty to
take another wife unfulfilled, and I am sure Isaac would
feel the same.
Speaker 3 (08:24):
Of course, Master, very true, I would not have you
delay this blessing on my account.
Speaker 1 (08:32):
Two weeks later, Eliezer and his men approached Taran, their
ten camels laden with provisions and gifts. The journey had
been swift, driven by Eliezer's determination and the urgency of
his mission. Each day he prayed fervently for success, for
he dreaded returning to Abraham without fulfilling his vow. Eliezer
(08:54):
had joined Abraham's household when the patriarch could pass through Damascus.
The young servant had grown by Abraham's side, rising from
obscurity to become chief servant and trusted adviser. He owed
everything to Abraham, and he loved him as a father.
As they neared heron, as scout raised a hand to
(09:15):
hold the party.
Speaker 6 (09:17):
This be Aram Naharaim. If the travelers from the roadway
back there can we believed the locals call it naehorstown.
Speaker 3 (09:25):
Nehor Master Abraham's brother. We're in the right place. Hi.
Speaker 6 (09:30):
It sounds like he's a prominent man in these parts.
Rich too.
Speaker 3 (09:33):
Oh, yes, our master's family was wealthy long before he
departed from them. These sons of Shem are considered merchant princes,
their well thrivaling royalty among the trade routes between Haran
and Erth.
Speaker 6 (09:49):
Aie a suitable family for our master's son, then, eh.
Speaker 3 (09:52):
Yes, exactly, I see a well over there by the
city walls. Let's unload the camels so we can of them.
We can also set up camp here outside the walls.
Speaker 1 (10:06):
The men sprang from their camels and set to the
task Eliezer had assigned them. Eliezer dismounted more slowly and
massaged his aching joints once he was on the ground.
The ride here had been long and hard, and the
weight of his task hadn't helped. He decided to go
and see to his own thirst before returning to help
(10:27):
the other men unload. As he neared, he saw the
townswomen emerging to draw water in the cool of the day.
He watched them, wondering if any were kin to Nahor
and if he might find Isaac's bride among them. For
two weeks, Eliezer had pondered how to fulfill his task.
Now standing at Haron's well, he devised a test. He
(10:50):
closed his eyes and prayed silently to the God of Abraham.
Speaker 3 (10:55):
Aye, I ask you, God, must High God of my
master Abraham, make this happen for me today, and show
kindness to my Master Abraham. Here I am, Lord, standing
at the spring where the daughters of the men of
the town are coming out to draw water. Let the
(11:15):
girl to whom I say, please lower your water jug
so I may drink, And who responds drink and all
water the camels also, Let her be the one whom
you have appointed for your servant, Master Isaac by this,
I will know that you have shown kindness to my Master.
Speaker 1 (11:36):
Ellie As I felt satisfied with the test he had devised,
he would ask the approaching women if they would draw
a drink for him, a hospitable act of most any
respectable woman would certainly oblige. But he would know that
Abraham's God's hand was at play if the woman miraculously
went above and beyond this common display of social niceties.
(11:56):
He had ten camels in tow, Watering them would be
no small task. If a woman offered to do that
as well, there would be no denying divine intentions.
Speaker 2 (12:06):
Were at work.
Speaker 1 (12:08):
Eyes still closed, Elieza sent out a quieter, a more
vulnerable prayer in his heart to the God of Abraham.
He prayed that his voice would be heard, that he
would even be permitted to make such a request to
this powerful god. He desperately hoped that his master's God
would deign to listen to him. He hoped for it
as much as he was fearful of failing Master Abraham.
(12:31):
As he opened his eyes, a young woman approached, her
water jug, balanced gracefully on her shoulder. Elieza watched her
with anticipation.
Speaker 3 (12:40):
His heart pounding, my lady, I have news.
Speaker 7 (12:45):
What is it, Deborah? Hurry, let's hear it. I must
leave to go down and draw water soon.
Speaker 8 (12:50):
That's just it, my lady.
Speaker 9 (12:52):
I heard some wealthy travelers just right. They're saying it's
an advanced party sent out on behalf of some lord
or merchant for a wife.
Speaker 8 (13:01):
I heard their wealth is quite substantial.
Speaker 7 (13:05):
Oh, you would have me go down and bat my eyes.
Speaker 9 (13:09):
You should find out what their business is. At least,
my lady, you should be the first to offer them hospitality.
Speaker 8 (13:16):
Go and make a good impression.
Speaker 9 (13:18):
See what comes of it.
Speaker 7 (13:21):
Deborah, have you made an offering to the Goddess Eana today?
Did you beg for her favor in love and fertility?
Your scheming is as bad as Laban's.
Speaker 8 (13:32):
My lady.
Speaker 9 (13:33):
If I thought as your brother does, I would be
on the city wall peering down at them and counting
the parcels myself.
Speaker 7 (13:39):
I wouldn't be surprised if Laban isn't doing that very thing.
I do suppose you're right, though it doesn't cost me
anything to be kind, and who knows I could have
much to gain. I would be wise to see if
there's something advantageous for me. Oh, and I know my
brother Laban would never forgive me if I let a
good opportunity? Did he pass me by?
Speaker 1 (14:04):
Not half an hour later, Rebecca was on her way
toward the well. Deborah fussed over her clothes, but then
frantically shoot her out the door of their house. Fretting
about the other young women of the town speaking to
the visitors before her, Rebecca nervously smoothed her dress with
one hand as she walked. The other balanced the large
(14:24):
clay water jug on her shoulder. Rebecca was young, but
she was no fool to the way of things. Her
brother Larban had not yet begun to take marriage negotiation
meetings with her, but she knew what was expected of her.
She was the daughter of a great family. Her grandfather
was none other than their patriarch in Nehor. The day
(14:46):
was soon coming that she would be a bride, and
if she could have a hand in bringing it about,
she was determined to do so. Rebecca was clever, never
missing an opportunity. Deborah often told her she had a
wilful and in dependent spirit that would need to be
curbed some day, but Rebecca could not help it. Perhaps
she and her brother were more alike than she would
(15:07):
care to admit. Rebecca inhaled sharply and straightened her shoulders
as she passed through the city gates. Sure enough, the
camels were kneeling beside the well. Deborau was right. The
amount of goods divided among the unridden camels was staggering.
Perhaps their lord was as rich as her family, maybe
even more so, she chuckled to herself. There she was
(15:31):
thinking like Lobon again. As she approached the entrance to
the well, she noticed a man standing several paces away,
watching her. Keeping her head high in her shoulders back,
she demurely pretended not to notice him. She proceeded to
walk down the stairs and draw water from the well.
He had the look of a servant, but one of
(15:52):
status the head servant.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
Perhaps.
Speaker 1 (15:55):
She sifted through her thoughts to plan what to say
to him, But as she climbed the stairs to the well,
she found that all her schemes and designs suddenly evaporated
from her mind. She didn't feel overwhelmed or scared. She
just felt present, an odd feeling since she constantly dreamed
and schemed about the future. Rebecca was aware of her
(16:17):
breath going in and out of her lungs. Her mind
felt crystal clear and open. The man approached.
Speaker 3 (16:24):
Please, my lady, would you let me have a little
water from your vessel?
Speaker 2 (16:29):
Up close?
Speaker 1 (16:30):
Rebecca was surprised to feel compassion for the man. He
seemed incredibly weary and tired. He must have come from
a far distance. Though she did not know him, she
felt responsible to him for some reason, loyal even without thinking.
She carefully shrugged the heavy water jug from her shoulder,
(16:50):
clasping it with two hands, and handed it to him
in a gesture of kindness.
Speaker 7 (16:56):
Drink, my lord.
Speaker 1 (16:58):
She watched as he drank long and deep from the jug.
She saw the camels kneeling beside the water trough behind him.
She could see from here that the limestone bottom of
the trough was cracked and dry as a bone. The
water from the day had been drained earlier or evaporated
in the heat. Again, a strong sense of compassion nagged
(17:18):
at her. She had to do something about that. She
was young and capable. She found within her an intense,
urgent desire to help.
Speaker 7 (17:29):
Please, my Lord, allow me to serve you. I see
that your camels have not been watered after your journey.
I'll also draw water for them until they've had enough
to drink.
Speaker 1 (17:39):
The man blinked at her in surprise, but graciously handed
her back her vessel and stepped aside. Rebecca emptied the
rest of her jug into the trough. She took her
empty water jug and descended the stairs. She drew more
water and began the climb again. The first camel was
already drinking deeply from the trough, and the others were
(17:59):
crowded round, eager to drink from the next. It took
Rebecca nine trips just to satisfy the first camel. The
man watched her still, and now his companions had slowed
their camp making to watch this strange scene unfold, that
of a young girl hurrying back and forth from the
well to the trough. A few of them started to
(18:20):
move forward to help, but the man wordlessly waved them off,
his eyes still fixed on Rebecca. But Rebecca didn't stop
at the first camel. She kept drawing water and marching
up and down the stairs, lungs and legs burning, until
all ten camels nearly one hundred trips, were watered. All
the while she wondered at herself. Gone was the advice
(18:44):
from her nurse maid. Gone was her own ambition or schemes. Instead,
there was only this overwhelming sense of miraculous loyalty. The
kindness and compassion she felt in her heart were all
that remained. As she labored at her task. Eliezza had
to keep reminding himself not to hang his mouth open
(19:05):
in disbelief. The girl was fulfilling the test he laid
before God. He was stunned into silence. The task had
taken several hours to complete, but she didn't stop to
rest or show signs of halting, even once. The light
was very nearly gone from the sky now, and the
flicker of lamps in high windows could be seen beyond
(19:26):
the city walls. The girl finally stopped when she poured
the last portion of water into the trough for the
last camel. She turned and faced him, panting as if
waiting for him to speak. Still in shock, dumbly, Elieza
stumbled forward toward one of the camels, now kneeling satiated
beside her.
Speaker 3 (19:47):
My lady, wait, I know it's getting late, and I'm
sure your family will be wondering where you are, but
I would present you with something.
Speaker 1 (19:57):
He fumbled through the saddle bags until he found what
he was looking for. He then stood before the girl.
She was young, but stunningly beautiful, with sharp, clever eyes
that he knew would not miss a thing. This was
undoubtedly the girl God intended for Master Isaac, and, still
shaking with realization and clarity, he gently took her hand
(20:20):
and placed a half shekeled gold ring in her palm.
He then took her other hand and placed two bracelets
weighing ten shekels of gold upon her wrists.
Speaker 3 (20:30):
Whose daughter are you? And please tell me? Is the
room in your father's house for us to spend the night?
Speaker 7 (20:37):
I am the daughter of Bethul, son of Milka, whom
she bore to Nahor. And yes, our camp has plenty
of straw and feed for your camels, and a place
for you and your men to spend the night.
Speaker 1 (20:48):
Elieza should not have been surprised by this discovery, after
what he had just witnessed, but he was amazed for
a second time that evening. When the girl named herself
one of Abraham's extended family. An overpowering sense of awe
swelled inside Eliezza, and he dropped to his knees in amazement.
Speaker 3 (21:07):
Blessed be the God of my master Abraham. He has
not withheld his kindness and his faithfulness from my master.
As for me, this same god, the God of my master,
has not led me astray, but led me straight to
the house of my master's relatives.
Speaker 1 (21:25):
Rebecca ran home and promised to send someone back to
meet them and escort them to her house. A short
while later, Elieza and his men were preparing to move
the camels when a large bear like man approached.
Speaker 6 (21:39):
Rathers, I am Laban at yours serves. My sister tells
me you have joined it a long while. Come, I
shall spoil you with lamb, wine and figs. Your camels
will have plenty of straw, and your heads will have
soft pillows to be at ease.
Speaker 1 (22:00):
Presented himself as a jolly simple man. Yet Rebecca knew better.
She knew that Laban always had an angle.
Speaker 2 (22:09):
The wheels were always.
Speaker 1 (22:11):
Turning behind his wide smile and earnest, deep voice. Elieza
and the others were escorted to the grand dining tent.
Tapestries of Nahor's exploits laced the walls and floor. Torches, flickered,
music played, and the rich smell of lamb stew and
roasted figs filled the air. It was nearly more than
(22:32):
Elieza could handle after such a journey, but he had
to remember the task at hand.
Speaker 3 (22:37):
My Lord Laban, and sweet Lady Rebecca, I must not
eat until I've said what I've come to say.
Speaker 6 (22:45):
Speak to your heart's content.
Speaker 3 (22:47):
I am Abraham's servant, that is Abraham, son of Terror,
and your father's brother. Now, God Almighty has blessed my
master in the land of Canaan. He has become very
wealthy in land and resources. God has given him flocks
and herds, silver and gold, servants, camels and donkeys. Sarah,
(23:12):
my master's wife, bore a son to my master in
her old age, and he has given him everything he owns.
His name is Isaac Hell.
Speaker 1 (23:23):
He has a paused for breath, and when he did,
he noticed with amusement that Rebecca's cheeks reddened at the
mention of Isaac's name.
Speaker 3 (23:32):
You see, I have traveled back to this land because
my master put me under an oath. He said to me,
you will not take a wife for my son from
the daughters of the Canaanites, but will go to my
father's family. Well, today we arrived in the land of
my master, and this is the first town we came upon.
(23:53):
Imagine my surprise when we came to discover the name.
While resting at the well, I divide the test to
discern God's will. I prayed to him and I said,
let the young woman who comes out to draw the water,
and I say to her, please, let me drink from
your vessel. And she responds, drink, and I'll also water
(24:13):
for your camels. Let her be the woman that God
Almighty has appointed for my master's son.
Speaker 1 (24:22):
The look of shock on the faces around the table
revealed the dismatch precisely to the account Rebecca told them.
Speaker 3 (24:29):
So it sounds like you already know where my tail
is heading. Before I had even finished praying, there was
Rebecca with her jug of water. What happened next was
it was exactly the sign that I had prayed for.
So you see the God of my master Abraham, He's
guided me to you, the granddaughter of my master's own brother.
Speaker 6 (24:55):
Oho. I speak for all of us when I say
I am a maid. Now I've heard rumors of Abraham's
god whispers and tall tales that blew in with the sand.
Hearing your account makes me believe all the more it
would seem that we have no choice in the matter.
(25:15):
You have also already offered, my dear sister, what would
appear to be the beginning of a generous bride price.
You should stay so we can discuss the details of
the arrangement. As long as it's all right with you,
dear sister.
Speaker 7 (25:29):
It seems fitting, brother, let's proceed.
Speaker 6 (25:33):
Ah, Yes, fitting indeed, Eliezar, raise your cup to Rebecca
and Isaac.
Speaker 1 (25:46):
Rebecca's household hummed with an excited frenzy. Eliza and Larbin
negotiated the bride price. Of course, Lavin squeezed every last
ounce he could during the negotiations, but in the end
all was set and ready. She was to be Isaac's wife.
She could scarcely sleep, and have been up at first
(26:07):
light to begin preparing for her journey. Word had come
to her that Elieza was eager to depart right away.
Rebecca heard voices from outside. She leaned in closer to listen.
Speaker 8 (26:20):
I know you are eager to get back to your master,
but let the girl stay with us for another ten days.
We are delighted with your offer, but this is so sudden.
We need time to prepare. Give us ten days then
she can go.
Speaker 3 (26:36):
I understand this may seem sudden, but please do not
delay me. Since God Almighty has made my journey successful.
I must go to tell my master and tell him.
Speaker 8 (26:49):
But we cannot organize an escort for her on such
short notice.
Speaker 6 (26:54):
You would have us send Rebecca alone, without the protection
of her family, because you were unwilling to wait a
few daves.
Speaker 3 (27:02):
I cannot delay, but I assure you she will be
under my protection. I will see her to my master
and my master's son safely.
Speaker 8 (27:12):
But how let us ask the girl. I am sure
Rebecca will have an appeared she will decide.
Speaker 1 (27:20):
Rebecca pulled away from the door in surprise. She thought
she would have more time to prepare for this new life.
Now that her thoughts were racing, she wondered if she
would ever be ready for something like this, leaving the
known and stepping into the unknown to learn a new
land and its customs, to learn to follow this God
(27:41):
of Abraham. She had never met Isaac or traveled to
the land she would help him rule. What had seemed
exciting in one moment now seemed utterly daunting. As she
fumbled through her thoughts, her mother, Elieza, and Laban entered Rebecca.
Speaker 8 (27:58):
A Liezer maintained aims that he cannot be delayed in
reporting back to his master. Will you go with him?
He intends to leave this very day.
Speaker 1 (28:09):
Rebecca looked from her mother to Elieza. When she looked
at him, all her overwhelming fears dissipated again. She felt
that sensation of loyalty and peace. Whether it was the
display of this man's faith or the power of his God,
she knew it would be all right.
Speaker 7 (28:29):
I will go.
Speaker 8 (28:32):
Look at this desolate place.
Speaker 7 (28:35):
Do these people live in sand castles? My betrothed people
are ranchers. They travel with their flocks and move about
in caravans. I would think some areas are more barren
than others.
Speaker 1 (28:48):
Rebecca had never beheld anything quite like the Negev before.
She had lived in Nahor's town her whole life, and
traveled to Haran and the surrounding camps on Occasioning could
have prepared her to see great plains and the wild wildernesses.
But when they arrived at the edge of the Negev, well,
she had never seen anything like it. It was barren and harsh,
(29:12):
yet she marveled at its dangerous beauty. Her betrothed family
had learned to harness the land and create a vast empire.
She too, would soon be brought into the fold and
learn the ways of the desert.
Speaker 5 (29:26):
Ayezer, are we close?
Speaker 9 (29:28):
I'm not sure how many more days on a camel
my rump can take.
Speaker 3 (29:34):
We are close. We have just crossed into the Master's lands.
Speaker 1 (29:38):
Rebecca's heart soared in anticipation. Hardly a fortnight ago, her
family had sent her off with Abraham's servant, all her belongings, Dowry,
and her nursemaid Deborah, who would become her handmaiden in
her new Rover's mistress. Her family had blessed her before
she left, and she had given them each a tearful
good bye late at night when they slept under the stars.
(30:02):
She still missed them terribly, but as each day brought
her closer to her new home, she could not deny
the excitement building inside. Just then, movement on the horizon
caught her attention. Through the haze of the desert, her
shape started to solidify.
Speaker 7 (30:20):
It was a man, Eliezer, Who is that in the
field coming out to meet us?
Speaker 9 (30:26):
How can you see anyone through this blasted haze and
heat that.
Speaker 3 (30:30):
My lady is Master Isaac.
Speaker 1 (30:33):
Rebecca blushed and grinned like a fool. She quickly turned
away from Eliezza to hide her nervousness. My lady, your veil.
Speaker 5 (30:42):
You're about to meet your betrothed.
Speaker 8 (30:44):
You should dune your veil.
Speaker 9 (30:46):
That is what is proper in your new station.
Speaker 1 (30:49):
Rebecca heeded her former nursemaid and donned her veil. She
fidgeted atop her camel in the saddle and wished her
palms were not sweating so much. As the man approached,
he was alone, as if returning from a leisurely walk
about his lands. His stature was impressive, even from the
top of her camel, and at a distance she could
(31:09):
tell he was tall, but his demeanor was not intimidating.
She could see a good natured grin springing across his face,
brightening his eyes and forming deep crinkles on his face.
This was a man who smiled a great deal.
Speaker 3 (31:25):
He liezer, you've returned that I have Master Isaac, and
so soon eager to remain my father's favorite, I see
Master Isaac. As you can see, I have returned from
my journey. God has made it successful. May I present,
(31:45):
Lady Rebecca.
Speaker 1 (31:47):
Rebecca inclined her head and found that when she brought
her gaze back up to meet her betrothed, his smile
had somehow doubled in size. Butterflies coursed through her, and
she was thankful that the veil covered most of her face.
She could only imagine the vibrant shade of red that
could be found beneath it. The desert heat was nothing
(32:07):
to the heat that radiated from her cheeks. She then
remembered she was supposed to say something.
Speaker 7 (32:13):
Oh, my lord, I have traveled a long way to
meet you. I am honored to become your wife.
Speaker 3 (32:21):
Oh no, no, Rebecca, it is I who am honored.
Look at how far you've traveled, why you've uprooted your
whole life to be here. I just pray I don't disappoint.
Speaker 2 (32:34):
You with that.
Speaker 1 (32:35):
He strode to her camel, reached up with muscular arms,
and lifted her gently to the ground. Her breath caught
as he set her down, and she nearly swooned as
she grasped his arms to steady herself. As if sensing
her nervousness, he gave her a good natured smile and
turned to Elieza.
Speaker 3 (32:55):
Eliezer told me everything I want to know about your
journey and how you met this lovely woman, Spare no detail.
Speaker 1 (33:04):
Rebecca was grateful for not being the center of attention.
She wondered if Isaac knew that explicitly or simply intuited sir.
As they walked side by side, she had the opportunity
to observe him. He earnestly listened and responded to Eliez's
story with great enthusiasm. Rebecca admired the man's easy going
(33:25):
way about him.
Speaker 3 (33:27):
My lady, Rebecca, I'm amazed you can stand around all
these camels for a moment longer, after all the time
you spent watering and wandering among them these past weeks.
But fear not, my dear, your camel wrangling days are
far behind you.
Speaker 7 (33:45):
Oh I am grateful to hear it.
Speaker 3 (33:47):
My lord, Come, I would be honored to introduce you
to father.
Speaker 1 (33:52):
Isaac took Rebecca's hand as they walked toward his father's camp.
She looked up at him, and he smiled her. She
smiled back. Rebecca was home at last. This Prey dot
com production is only made possible by our dedicated team
of creative Talents. Steve Gattina, Max Bard, Zach Shellabarger and
(34:17):
Ben Gammon are the executive producers of The Chosen People.
Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton,
Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc,
Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and Mitch Leshinsky. Music by
Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and
(34:41):
Chris Baig. You can hear more Prey dot com productions
on the Prey dot Com app, available on the Apple
App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed The
Chosen People, please rate and leave a review,
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